Volvo’s S60 and XC60 R-Designs Revealed for 2014 [2013 New York Auto Show]

Chinese-owned Volvo has a rich, sporty heritage that goes back to rally cars of the 1950s and 1960s, which was buried during the safety-conscious 1970s and 1980s, and eventually rediscovered in the 1990s. Today, the brand is playing up that theme expertly with its R-Design models for its refreshed-for-2014 S60 and XC60. These packages go significantly beyond merely cosmetic changes, and were launched at this year's New York auto show. Both cars are fitted exclusively with the top-of-the-line T6 turbocharged straight-six engine, whose output has been lifted from 300 horsepower at 5600 rpm to 325 horsepower at 5400 rpm. Maximum torque rises from 325 lb-ft, available from 2100 rpm, up to 354 lb-ft, now available from 3000 rpm. As a result, 0-to-60-mph times improve: the S60′s time dips from 5.5 seconds to 5.3, and the XC60 goes from 6.6 down to 6.2. Both R-Design models receive the brand's newest six-speed automatic, equipped with Advanced Quick Shifts, which Volvo claims can cut shift times by up to 50 percent. Volvo also has improved cornering performance by lowering the chassis by 0.6 inch, and adding optional 19-inch wheels on the S60 and 20-inch wheels on the XC60. The S60 receives 20-percent stiffer bushings and 15-percent stiffer springs, as well as rear monotube dampers. Visual changes include updated fascias, a frameless grille, unique wheel arches, a bespoke rear diffuser, and special exhaust outlets. The digital instrumentation is altered as well, and can be configured in three settings: Elegance, Eco, and Performance. Long-Term Road Test Wrap-Up: 2012 Volvo S60 T6 AWD Instrumented Test: 2012 Volvo XC60 R-Design Comparison Test: 2012 BMW 328i vs. 2012 Audi A4 2.0T, 2012 Infiniti G25, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 Sport, 2012 Volvo S60 T6 AWD Pricing for the 2014 R-Designs hasn't been announced yet, but the upgrade was a $3450 add-on last year. Volvo expects a 10 percent take rate for its R-Design packages. We commend Volvo to continue to emphasize its sporty side. But if we could ask for just one more thing, could you please put the 508-hp Polestar S60 concept into production? from Car and Driver Blog http://blog.caranddriver.com

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